Feature: Aislaby Estate: A Jewel in Sri Lanka’s Tea Crown

(Article provided by the company)

Located amidst the sprawling landscapes of Sri Lanka's fertile Uva Province, Aislaby Estate stands as a testament to the unique legacy of Pure Ceylon tea. Sri Lanka is renowned worldwide for its diverse teas, with a wide variety of flavour profiles influenced by distinct agro-climatic conditions, each producing unique and exceptional brews, and has firmly established itself as a beacon of excellence in tea cultivation.

Within this vibrant tapestry of tea is Aislaby Estate. With a proud heritage spanning over a century of unwavering commitment to quality and innovation in tea production, the estate is today managed by Malwatte Valley Plantations Limited.

A Legacy Rooted in History

The journey of Aislaby Estate commenced in 1920 when Norman Bostock who was inspired by the lush hills and the unique climate of the Uva Province purchased and planted the Aislaby Tea Estate.  He named the property ‘Aislaby’ after a county in North Yorkshire where he had his roots.  Along with his son Mark, who eventually ended up as the Chairman of the John Keells Group, he soon turned this property into a leading Tea Estate in Uva. Historically intertwined with the esteemed Malwatte belt known for its royal gardens dating back to the 11th century, it preserved its rich heritage while embracing modern agricultural practices.

Despite significant challenges caused by the terrain, Mr. Bostock oversaw operations from his iconic "Bostock’s Chair" which he built at Kirchchyan Division overlooking a large portion of Aislaby.  Using binoculars he would meticulously survey the tea fields from that view point.

Excellence in Tea Production and Community Impact

Aislaby Estate's commitment to uncompromising quality is evident in every cup of tea produced. The estate's tea factory, established in 1936 at an elevation of 1,218 metres, operates under stringent quality standards including Rainforest Alliance, ISO 22000, ETP, and GMP certifications. These rigorous measures ensure that each batch of tea meets the highest benchmarks of purity and flavour, maintaining Aislaby Estate's reputation as a producer of some of Sri Lanka's finest teas.

To add to this, the dessicating ‘kachan’ winds that originate in the arid deserts of North India sweep across our Eastern slopes and through the Malwatte belt between July and September each year, enhancing the flavour profile of Aislaby teas and making it stand out amongst its competitors.

"Aislaby Estate's commitment to producing high-quality tea is at the heart of everything we do. We strive to uphold the rich legacy of this estate while embracing innovation and sustainability," says Lucas Bogtstra, Managing Director of Malwatte Valley Plantations PLC.

The estate recognises the importance of sustainable agriculture in preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Uva. Aislaby’s sustainable practices include soil conservation, water management, and integrated pest management techniques that minimise environmental impact while ensuring the long-term viability of tea cultivation.

Beyond its commercial success, Aislaby Estate is dedicated to sustainability and community welfare. It provides essential employment for local residents, significantly boosting the local economy. The estate supports education, healthcare, and infrastructure development, positively impacting its employees and their families. By emphasising sustainability and social responsibility, Aislaby Estate ensures its operations benefit the region as a whole.

From Leaf to Cup

At Aislaby Estate, the journey of tea begins with meticulous care in the cultivation of tea bushes. The estate's 463 hectares of tea gardens are meticulously tended by a dedicated workforce, ensuring that only the finest tea leaves are harvested. Each step of the process, from plucking to withering, rolling, fermenting, and drying, is carefully monitored to preserve the quality of the leaf and enhance its natural flavours.

After harvesting, the tea leaves are transported to the estate's state-of-the-art factory, where they undergo processing according to traditional methods and modern techniques. The factory's commitment to quality is evident in its adherence to international standards and certifications, guaranteeing that Aislaby teas maintain their exceptional quality and distinctive character.

Once processed, Aislaby teas are carefully packed and distributed to markets worldwide, where they are eagerly awaited by discerning tea connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed as a comforting cup of black tea or savoured for its delicate notes in specialty blends, Aislaby tea embodies the essence of Sri Lanka's tea heritage, offering a taste of tradition and excellence in every sip.

The Future of Aislaby Estate and Sri Lanka's Tea Industry

The Malwatte belt consists of Aislaby, Chelsea, Uva Highlands, Neluwa and St. James. Operating under the umbrella of Malwatte Valley Plantations Limited, a leading entity in Sri Lanka's tea industry, Aislaby Estate benefits from shared expertise and resources within the group. This strategic affiliation strengthens Aislaby's commitment to quality, sustainability, and social responsibility, ensuring it continues to thrive as a trailblazer in Sri Lanka's tea landscape.

Looking ahead, Aislaby Estate remains committed to innovation and excellence in tea production by investing in research and development to explore new techniques and cultivars that elevate tea quality and diversity. As part of Malwatte Valley Plantations Limited, it benefits from synergies with other prestigious estates, ensuring sustainability and quality while adapting to global market demands. Blending tradition with innovation, Aislaby Estate produces teas of exceptional quality and character, maintaining its dedication to excellence, sustainability, and community welfare. As a premier tea producer, Aislaby Estate will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Sri Lanka's esteemed tea industry, ensuring its legacy endures for generations.